Announcement of new Head of School of Design and Architecture

Dear colleagues,

I’m delighted to announce that the successful candidate for the role of the Head of School of Design and Architecture was Dr Tim Whitehead, currently Head of Department Design, Technology and Innovation at Aston University. Tim has a background in product design innovation and design thinking. He conducts research on developing practical solutions to global challenges faced in emerging economies, utilising frontier technology, digital transformation, and industry 5.0 principles, to improve the lives and opportunities of those living in low-middle income countries. As Associate Dean for Impact, Tim founded Design Factory Birmingham, a creative and digital innovation commercialisation space offering digital and physical solutions to businesses while simultaneously offering valuable real-world work experience to students.

Tim will join the University on 1 September. He says, “I am so excited to join the School of Design and Architecture. I look forward to connecting with the rest of the team in the coming months. My aim is to unite our disciplines into one dynamic, collaborative, interdisciplinary School, foster a vibrant vision for the future, and continue strengthening the already excellent reputation – I can’t wait to start!”

I am very grateful to Denver Hendricks for his able acting leadership of the school throughout the 2024/25 academic year, and also to Clem Monro for filling the Deputy Head of School/Programme Leader so successfully.

Best wishes,

Abigail Woods
Pro Vice Chancellor / Head of College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities

Dr Tim Whitehead